Weight Management - 7 Tips to Jump-start Your Metabolism

If you didn’t eat breakfast at all, you’re not alone. Many people skip breakfast to avoid eating those “extra” calories, or because they’re too rushed in the mornings.

But people who don’t eat breakfast end up eating more throughout the rest of the day than people who do eat a morning meal. Those extra calories can make it hard to keep your weight management in check. One tasty meal gives you:

An energy boost. Breakfast gives your body the fuel it needs to make it to lunch time.

A jump-start for your metabolism. Think of breakfast as a fat-burning shot of espresso for your digestive system.

Better blood sugar management. This is important for managing and preventing diabetes.

Ready to start enjoying the health and weight management benefits of breakfast? Follow these 7 tips to get the most from your morning meal.

Combine 3 food groups. Fruit, whole grains and protein make a balanced meal. For example, have a boiled egg, a banana and a granola bar. Or, for a breakfast on the go, grab a handful of high-fiber dry cereal, a bag of grapes and low-fat string cheese.

Start small. If you aren’t used to eating breakfast, start with just one healthful food item and work your way up to a full balanced meal.

Avoid processed breakfast foods. Low-fiber, high-sugar breakfast foods like toaster pastries have no nutritional value. A good rule of thumb is that if something has less than 2 grams of fiber per serving, it won’t satisfy you. Fiber helps you feel fuller for longer.

Check labels. Packaging might advertise “whole grain” or have “fruit” in the name, but that doesn’t mean it’s a healthful food. True whole grain foods will have that listed as the primary ingredient.

Stay away from syrups. If “syrup” is listed as one of the ingredients, it’s loaded with added sugar.

Don’t drink your breakfast. Smoothies or other breakfast drinks are digested more quickly, and won’t make you feel as satisfied as actual food. If you make a smoothie, use light yogurt, frozen berries with no added sugar, and a small amount of no-sugar-added juice.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.